Texas Gun Laws

[Sig_Fiend]

This thread is purely for posting gun laws, state code, links to related content, etc. No discussion here please, only post links to related information as I want to keep this topic short and to the point for people to reference without wading through lots of posts. Here's some stuff to get the ball rolling:

-DPS CHL Information There is a separate sticky in this section specifically for CHL info, this is just a quick reference. (Thanks to TXB4Z for this one)

Here's a few links from the Texas State Code:

-SB378 aka The Castle Doctrine

-HB1815 This is the bill specifically legalizing every state resident that can legally own a firearm to carry one in their car (as long as it is concealed).

[idleprocess]

NRA-ILA's concise summary of Texas firearm laws.

[Sig_Fiend]

Thank you Idleprocess, that is an excellent compilation from the NRA. After browsing through it, I would like to add a comment. Due to the wording of their section in regards to machineguns, I can see how it might be possible for someone to get the wrong idea. Machineguns, suppressors, short barrel rifles, and all other weapons as classified under the NFA are in fact 100% legal in Texas when registered with the BATFE in the proper manner. The only catch is you have to apply to the BATFE(ATF) to obtain the proper "tax stamp" in order to legally register the firearm. You cannot legally own/possess any of these types of weapons any other way. Basically, anyone that can legally purchase a handgun, rifle, shotgun, etc in Texas can legally purchase a machinegun, suppressor or any other NFA item provided you apply through the BATFE. I fully plan on adding another sticky in the future in regards to NFA weapons and regulations, so I'm not elaborating on it here.

[Sig_Fiend]

For future reference here's a link to SB 112 and HB 258 (same thing), the bill enacted by Governor Perry as of 9-1-2007 for protection against firearms confiscation in a state of emergency:

SB 112
HB 258


Sec. 418.184. FIREARMS. (a) A peace officer who is acting in the lawful execution of the officer's official duties during a state of disaster may disarm an individual if the officer reasonably believes it is immediately necessary for the protection of the officer or another individual. (b)The peace officer shall return the firearm to an individual disarmed under Subsection (a) before ceasing to detain the individual unless the officer: (1)arrests the individual for engaging in criminal activity; or (2)seizes the firearm as evidence in a criminal investigation. SECTION 3. Section 229.001, Local Government Code, is amended by adding Subsection (d) to read as follows: (d)The exception provided by Subsection (b)(4) does not authorize the seizure or confiscation of any firearm or ammunition from an individual who is lawfully carrying or possessing the firearm or ammunition.

[Jonas]

You may want to carry your tax transfer approval form with you when you go to the ranges, otherwise some range attendants don't understand the law and they call the police.
Personally I recommend to tell the attendant and show him the paprework before you start shooting.

-jonas

[TurnedTurtle]

First post here.

I am an OK resident but will be working in TX approximately 20 days a month for the next 3 to 6 months. My question is whether or not I am legal to carry a loaded concealed hand gun in my vehicle while in Texas? I know I will be ok when I get my concealed carry permit here in OK but I'm still probably 60 days out. I have read the linked material in this thread but can't seem to find anything that defines residency status or whether or not it even matters.

Can any of you folks point me in the right direction to find an answer to my question?

Any help will be appreciated.

[nalioth]

Originally Posted by TurnedTurtle

First post here.

I am an OK resident but will be working in TX approximately 20 days a month for the next 3 to 6 months. My question is whether or not I am legal to carry a loaded concealed hand gun in my vehicle while in Texas? I know I will be ok when I get my concealed carry permit here in OK but I'm still probably 60 days out. I have read the linked material in this thread but can't seem to find anything that defines residency status or whether or not it even matters.

Can any of you folks point me in the right direction to find an answer to my question?

Any help will be appreciated.

You are expected to obey Texas laws while in Texas.

Yes, anyone who can legally own a handgun can carry it in their vehicle under the law linked above.

[nero14]

Everywhere i have read says its fine to carry a handgun in your car under the laws stated above, but it specifically says "handgun" (Including HB1815). I am 19, legally not allowed to own a handgun due to not being 21, and legally allowed to own a long gun, am i allowed to carry one of my rifles under the laws stated above?

Thanks in advance.

[nalioth]

Originally Posted by nero14

Everywhere i have read says its fine to carry a handgun in your car under the laws stated above, but it specifically says "handgun" (Including HB1815). I am 19, legally not allowed to own a handgun due to not being 21, and legally allowed to own a long gun, am i allowed to carry one of my rifles under the laws stated above?

Thanks in advance.

In Texas, you can legally own a handgun at 18, you just can't buy one from a federally licensed dealer until you're 21.

If you legally own a handgun, you can carry it in your vehicle as described above.

Rifles and shotguns are not covered under the above law, as they are not restricted at all.

[nero14]

Originally Posted by nalioth

In Texas, you can legally own a handgun at 18, you just can't buy one from a federally licensed dealer until you're 21.

If you legally own a handgun, you can carry it in your vehicle as described above.

Rifles and shotguns are not covered under the above law, as they are not restricted at all.

So i can legally purchase a handgun FTF?